Retired wrestlers sue WWE citing neurological injuries

A class action lawsuit was filed on Monday against World Wrestling Entertainment on behalf of dozens of retired pro wrestlers claiming they suffered neurological injuries while working for the company, according to Reuters.

The lawsuit represents more than 50 plaintiffs who wrestled for WWE since the 1970s, including Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka and Paul "Mr. Wonderful" Orndorff.

The plaintiffs are accusing WWE and its chairman Vince McMahon of purposely labeling wrestlers as independent contractors instead of employees to avoid any liability that falls under worker protection laws. The lawsuit seeks compensatory and punitive damages, and calls for better medical monitoring.

"WWE placed corporate gain over its wrestlers' health, safety, and financial security, choosing to leave the plaintiffs severely injured and with no recourse to treat their damaged minds and bodies," the lawsuit stated.

Konstantine Kyros, the attorney organizing the lawsuit, has previously filed similar lawsuits against the Stamford, Conn.-based WWE, which were dismissed.